Comedy show to benefit Scleroderma Foundation, Detroit Area Diaper Bank

Posted: 2:26 PM, March 27, 2013Updated: 2:26 PM, March 27, 2013

SOUTHFIELD, Mich. - Comedians Josh Sneed, J. Chris Newburg and Mark Teich will bring laughter and funding for two area nonprofits during a special event at the Gem Theatre April 11.

Laughter for a CURE will benefit the Scleroderma Foundation (SF) Michigan Chapter and the Detroit Area Diaper Bank (DADB) by raising financial support and awareness for this little-known autoimmune disease and an equally little-known need -- diapers for the most vulnerable members of our community.

The event will be held from 6 – 10 p.m. Thursday, April 11, 2013, at the Gem Theatre in Detroit. Proceeds will benefit the SF chapter's tri-fold mission of patient support, education and research efforts.

Guests are asked to bring donations of diapering supplies to the event, or contact DADB prior to the event for information on other collection points.

"We are extremely honored and proud to be partnering with the Detroit Area Diaper Bank on this event," says SF Chapter Executive Director Laura Dyas. "Working together just makes sense in today's economy where donor dollars are at a premium. Our goal is to bring greater awareness of the need for a CURE for scleroderma and to bring an awareness of that fact that none of the ‘safety net' programs such as WIC, food stamps or Medicare are currently paying for or providing diapers for those in need in the community. Both of our nonprofits need to educate the community about our services, and it is with this goal in mind that we come together for a fun- filled evening."

Scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, is a chronic connective tissue disease generally classified as one of the autoimmune diseases.

Hardening of the skin is one of the most visible manifestations; however symptoms include sensitivity to cold in fingers and hands, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing, joint stiffness and pain and damage to internal organs. Eighty percent of patients are female; the University of Michigan sees about 12 new patients a week.

Scleroderma typically strikes between the ages of 25 and 55 but cases have been reported in newborns.

General admission tickets are $40 and general admission tickets with a food option are $60.